CHESHIRE — In light of the resignation of Michael Alibozek as Cheshire's police chief, the Select Board is taking the first steps toward filling the position permanently.

Specifically, the board is seeking people to serve on a search committee.

Alibozek was arrested at the parking lot of Hoosac Valley High School in a human trafficking sting operation on Nov. 6, 2025. He has pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge of soliciting sex for a fee.

He was initially placed on paid administrative leave, revoking his badge and firearm, and subsequently unpaid leave. He later resigned.

On Nov. 20, the state’s Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission suspended Alibozek’s law enforcement certification.

Meantime, the town has enlisted Tim Garner, retired police chief, to fill the chief’s position, but only as an administrative chief handling firearms.

“He is not doing law enforcement,” said Town Administrator Jennifer Morse. “He’s going to stay on with the town until we can find a permanent full-time chief.”

Cheshire is one of several communities in Berkshire County operating without a permanent police chief.

In Adams, Timothy Sorrell has been appointed acting police chief following the departure of K. Scott Kelley, who was first placed on leave for three months.

Monterey Police Chief Brian Fahey is also acting as police chief in Sandisfield following the firing of Police Chief Michael Morrison.

Other communities with recent turnover in the police chief's position include Pittsfield and Lenox.

Morse said the Select Board has not specified a number for the search committee, but in prior search committees, there have been five people.

She said the town is in “the beginning phases where we’re only asking people to submit their interest.”

"You should highlight any relevant experience — particularly in municipal or law enforcement operations," the notice reads on the town website. "The Board of Selectmen would like to understand what unique perspective, skills or insight you can contribute to this important process."

Interested applicants are asked to submit a volunteer interest form to [email protected].